Blocked chimneys are mainly caused by nesting birds. Bird nests can lead to fire risk and need to be cleared. Even if partially blocked this can affect the efficiency of your fire or stove.

During early Spring it is a common problem to have birds nesting in your chimney. It is important that you do not use the fire or stove until the nest has been removed and the chimney swept and inspected.

First signs of trouble are usually twigs appearing in your fireplace and when you look up at the chimney pot you will see Magpies or Crows going in and out the pot whilst carrying twigs. It does not take long for the twigs to block the chimney and present a serious risk of Carbon Monoxide entering the living space with tragic consequences should the fire or stove be used.

When the nest is under construction or occupied with mother bird, eggs, or chicks we will not disturb or remove the nest for any reason morally and it is illegal to do so. Once the birds have finished with the nest we are more than happy to come out remove the nest, sweep the chimney and carry out a smoke test.

We also recommend that a proper bird guard suitable for your type of fire or stove be fitted. We can supply and fit this if necessary.